Mouth cancer risk and diabetes

New research reveals that women have a 13% higher chance of developing oral cancer if they suffer from diabetes.

Overall, women faced a 27% increase of developing any form of cancer if they had diabetes, while men also faced a 19% increased risk according to the study.

With previous research showing close links between diabetes and the development of mouth cancer, as well as other forms of the disease, Dr Nigel Carter, CEO of the Oral Health Foundation, is calling on people to be aware of the close links between their oral health and their wider wellbeing.

He believes the research could help to identify individuals at risk of mouth cancer.

Dr Carter said: 'This could be a very significant piece of research, and one that could help to save lives. Diabetes has previously been linked to poor oral health, but this new research shows a specific link to mouth cancer.

'This makes regular dental visits an absolute must. If your dentists know that you are diabetic, they will check your mouth accordingly. For many years we have known that diabetic patients are more likely to get gum disease and need extra dental care but this is yet another reason for regular checks.'

In the UK, it is estimated that over four million live with diabetes, with many cases going undiagnosed. Type 2 diabetes, which is closely linked to lifestyle and diet, has been rapidly increasing in recent years and is now one of the world’s most common long-term health conditions.